Sassy Southern Cooking with a French Twist

flounder

PGA Fare Links

After years of planning and anticipation, the 2012 PGA Championship has landed at Kiawah Island, one of the loveliest barrier islands in greater Charleston and home to one of the most commanding golf courses in the world, The Ocean Course. Final rounds will take place Sunday, August12, so there is plenty of time to check it out and fill up on great golf and great food.

I was blessed to be given a ticket for the final practice rounds on Wednesday, and anticipated going around the grounds sampling the fare to report on what tournament attendees might expect to find there.  But, Mother Nature had other plans, and along with Ernie Els and the pro golfing gang, brought pesky Ernesto’s high winds, lightning, and drenching rains to town. So, getting around was not only dangerous, it practically required flippers.

I had about 20 minutes to do some checking before the rains came and was impressed with the number of clean, well-staffed tents serving the usual suspects – hot dogs, burgers, salad, beer – but I’m told the fish tacos at the Wanamaker tent near the 18th hole (that I couldn’t reach) are top shelf food picks on the actual grounds.

Kiawah Island is a big one and there are ample choices for delicious dining all over it. Because I was staying at one of the villas near The Sanctuary (about 8 miles from The Ocean Course), that’s the general area I focused my dining attention. Dining at the AAA 5 Diamond resort doesn’t require that you actually stay there, and it’s accessible with plenty of parking and valet service, if you so desire.

Jasmine Porch, serving a “Taste of the Lowcountry,” does just that and has long been one of my favorite dining destinations on Kiawah. Billowing chiffon, golden oak-plank floors, embracing banquettes and stunning views of The Atlantic, work in tandem with the stellar service, whether is for breakfast, lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch. I was able to slip in there for an early dinner without reservations, though at this stage of the tournament game, I’d highly recommend making them. The caramel-colored She Crab Bisque ($9) is laced with sweet notes of Sherry and layered with buttery crab flavor.  The Whole Carolina Flounder ($29) was caught just a few miles off island waters, according to my wonderful server, and it tasted like it – local, sweet, flaky, and moist. It is scored, lightly battered, fried, and served whole. This is not to be missed, and is paired with a silky, lemon beurre blanc, garden fresh haricot verts, and a toothsome mushroom purloo.

Fresh Lowcountry Whole Fried Flounder with Mushroom Purloo, Lemon Beurre Blanc and Green Beans from Jasmine Porch.

 

Don’t miss the bread basket here, either, which is stuffed with an assortment of fresh baked breads served with honey thyme butter.

Upstairs, at the celebrated Ocean Room, the emphasis is on local, grass fed, artisinal beef sourcing, elegance, and more sweeping water views.  The price ante takes a considerable leap, as well, and access will be challenging as the tournament advances towards the final rounds. Better yet, consider going early (6 p.m.’ish), and hopefully take an available seat in the popular lounge next door. This area is a bar/dining space cushioned between the masterful iron grate front doors and the formal dining room.  The ambience is a bit more relaxed, but the decorum level and water views are still fully on display. Order from the “Sushi Lounge”sushi menu or from the complete dinner menu offered in The Oak Room.  I ended up in the lounge and enjoyed an impeccable salad of creamy, almost pudding-like goat cheese salad with Marcona almonds,  sweet South Carolina peaches and arugula from The Oak Room menu.

Goat Cheese and South Carolina Peach Salad at The Ocean Room

In search of really good fast food that’s nearby and delicious?

Check out the charming Town Center Market, which is just one exit up the road from The Sanctuary at East Bay Village. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the menu includes hefty, fresh breakfast egg wrap combinations, made to order, assorted pizza, sandwich wraps and panini for lunch. Complete dinner entrees are also offered, including a smashing Southern fried chicken home-style platter ($9.75). You can also stock on assorted sundries while you’re there and parking is a snap.

While you’re coming into the island or leaving, don’t miss a stop at Freshfields Village Market accessed via the turn around at the entrance to Kiawah. The entire place is stocked with beautiful food and wine, but the deli case, sandwich bar, and hot food buffet never fail to please. You can eat there or take it on the go to enjoy on your way to the course.

After all, spectators have to eat, too. Bon appetit!

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